Radio is a form of entertainment that dates back to the early 1900s. While the size and shape of standard radios vary greatly and have changed radically over time, this technology remains relevant and is still widely used in today's society. We all have our favorite forms of entertainment--movies, TV, video games, music, etc. With that in mind, here is one of the most popular old radio plays and/or performances ever produced. War of the Worlds (1938)--This radio tale is probably the most well-known and notorious narrative of its kind. Today, it remains a story for all ages, especially given our penchant for conspiracy theories and fascination with unknown elements. On Oct. 31, 1938, famed actor and director Orson Welles presented his account of H.G. Wells' classic novel The War of the Worlds on the Mercury Theater on the Air radio program, which featured weekly broadcasts. He acted as its narrator and described in detail an alien invasion and attack on New Jersey. This broadcast featured so-called witness accounts and "news" reports, which were so believable that the audience flipped over the so-called real event. When the full story came out, many felt outraged, others were conflicted by feelings of exhilaration and betrayal, but this broadcast went down in history and established the actor as a superstar. The retelling of this tale gave the world pause and caused a brief panic among distressed listeners who briefly stockpiled weapons and hid out in their basements from the threat. Ultimately, Welles was forced to issue an apology, which he did in his own trademark backhanded fashion. Nonetheless, this powerful drama paved The way for The "Age of Radio" and placed Welles on his path to stardom.
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AuthorHi my name is Michael - and I'll be your historian and tour guide through the most fascinating form of entertainment. Archives
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